Earth has the only life in the universe that we know of. The conditions for life are very specific, and very fragile. It is important to realize how precious this gift is.

In order to support and maintain life we need water. We are made mostly of water. Our Sun has to be just the right distance from Earth, not too close or the water would boil, not to far or it would freeze. Earth is just the right distance from our Sun.

We need air to breathe that will support life, with the right amount of oxygen, not caustic like so many other planets. We need a climate that can support plants and animals, not too hot, not too cold.

All these and many other factors work together to make life possible on Earth. Other planets don’t have Earth’s unique, life fostering, fortunate combinations.

There are some who choose to believe in little green men. Belief is a choice. A case could be made for not choosing to believe in extra terrestrials, because we are in such a crisis learning to live responsibly on Earth. It could be used as an excuse for not putting one’s attention on Earth. If your house is burning you really do need to put your efforts into to putting out the fire, and not to have your attention elsewhere.

Scientists have searched a thousand suns and not found life, but even if there were life on every other planet, if we search our hearts we know that earthlife is precious and needs to be protected.

We could all use a greater appreciation of the uniqueness of life on Earth and how crucial it is to preserve it. How incredibly fortunate we all are to have the benefit of this life.